{
  "id": 9061334,
  "title": "Kano football prodigy, Akilu Jarma Jnr, eyes success with Leganés",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/22/kano-football-prodigy-akilu-jarma-jnr-eyes-success-with-leganes",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-22T01:29:04.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily Trust",
    "slug": "daily-trust",
    "url": "https://dailytrust.com/kano-football-prodigy-akilu-jarma-jnr-eyes-success-with-leganes/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Isa Ussain Akilu Jnr, a young Nigerian footballer from Kano Pillars U-17, is aiming for success in European football after joining Spanish club Deportivo Leganés. The 18-year-old midfielder, who stands at 1.88 metres and weighs 73.4kg, began his football journey at the Michel Hidalgo Football Academy in Antibes, France, in January 2026, following his departure from Kano Pillars.\n\nSince his arrival in France, Akilu has honed his skills at U-19 level with AS Fontonne, further developing his technical ability, vision, and versatility in midfield. Known for his 73.4kg frame, strong left foot, and ability to remain composed under pressure, the Nigerian prodigy has impressed coaches with his game intelligence, discipline, and commitment to improvement.\n\nThe Michel Hidalgo Football Academy has praised Akilu's technical qualities, tactical understanding, and dedication, describing him as a player with \"valuable technical and athletic attributes\". Head coach Jérémy De Magalhaes has also highlighted his composure with the ball, especially in high-press situations, as well as his control of the left foot.\n\nNow, Akilu has taken another step in his European football career by joining Deportivo Leganés, where he is set to further develop his skills and contribute to the team's success.",
  "summary": "A Kano Pillars U-17 product, Isa Ussain Akilu Jarma Jnr, is targeting a breakthrough in European football following his recent move to Spanish club Deportivo Leganés. The 18-year-old Nigerian midfielder joined the Michel Hidalgo Football Academy in Antibes, France, in January 2026, after leaving the junior ranks of Kano Pillars. Since arriving in France, Akilu […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}